Kyle Ringo Blog: Musings from Practice No. 1

There was a lot to like about the Colorado football team's first day on the practice fields of fall camp Saturday morning.

I obviously can't be real specific here because I don't want to violate coach Mike MacIntyre's prohibition on reporting on the details of practice. But I can certainly share some of my thoughts on players I noticed.

Many of the new guys definitely meet the eyeball test and improve the overall size and appearance of the team. It remains to be seen how many of those guys will earn playing time this year. I'm expecting MacIntyre to use fewer than a dozen true freshmen this year and maybe fewer than 10.

Freshman offensive lineman Isaiah Holland is massive at 6-foot-5, 330 pounds. He probably isn't in the shape he needs to be but he looks like he could play today if needed. Shane Callahan obviously spent two years at Auburn and it's no surprise that he looks like he can help this program immediately. If he gets a waiver to play right away, I have to believe he will get on the field sooner rather than later.

Wide receiver Shay Fields seems to be everything he was advertised to be in recruiting. He's got plenty to learn but has the athletic ability to make plays right now in the Pac-12.

Too bad Air Force transfer Jaleel Awini will be ineligible this season because of NCAA transfer rules. I think Awini might be able to push Sefo Liufau for the starting job and would at least be in the mix for the backup job with Jordan Gehrke.

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He has a strong arm and plenty of athleticism.

Watching the ball explode of sophomore place-kicker Diego Gonzalez's foot reminds me a lot of former CU kicker Mason Crosby. Gonzalez has a ways to go before he can match Crosby's consitency.

Redshirt freshman tight end Connor Center looks exactly like what you want from a tight end his age in the Pac-12. He has added some weight and strength. He still has a ways to go in understanding the game and working on his technique, route running, blocking, etc. but it seems like he could have a bright future if he applies himself to football.

You would think I'd have the good sense and experience to spend more time standing in the shade during the first practice of fall camp 2014, my 11th in Boulder. Came away with a bit of sunburn like a rookie.

MacIntyre feels Colorado is capable of making run at bowl gameCU BUFFS FALL CAMPWhen: 29 practices beginning Wednesday morning 8:30-11 a.m. Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday practices are open to the media and public next week. Full Story

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